Redshirt sophomore wide receiver Isaiah Horton and senior wide receiver Jacoby George celebrate a touchdown in Miami’s win over Virginia Tech at Hard Rock Stadium on Sept. 27, 2024.
Greg McElroy points out a serious weakness in Miami’s CFP argument against Alabama.
This year’s expanded 12-team College Football Playoff (CFP) has ignited fresh debates, reminiscent of last season’s uproar when undefeated Florida State was passed over in favor of one-loss Alabama. The spotlight this time centers on Miami’s controversial exclusion.
Despite a 10-2 record, the Hurricanes were ranked No. 12 in the penultimate CFP rankings announced Tuesday, making them the first team left out. In contrast, Alabama, sitting at 9-3, secured the No. 11 spot, putting the Crimson Tide in prime contention for a playoff berth depending on the outcomes of the upcoming conference championships.
The decision has provoked strong criticism, particularly from the ACC. Miami head coach Mario Cristobal, athletic director Dan Radakovich, ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips, and passionate Hurricanes fans have voiced their frustrations. Many see this as yet another instance of bias against the ACC, with Miami now grappling for clarity.
ESPN analyst Greg McElroy pinpointed the Hurricanes’ biggest challenge—not their two losses, but the lack of strength in their victories.
“The problem wasn’t Miami’s losses,” McElroy explained. “It was that the teams they beat haven’t performed well overall.”
Of Miami’s opponents, only Syracuse, ranked No. 22 after upsetting the Hurricanes, remains in the CFP’s top 25. While Miami boasts wins over 9-3 Duke, 8-4 Louisville, and 7-5 Florida, those accomplishments appear less significant in the eyes of the selection committee. Even Florida’s impressive late-season victories over LSU and Ole Miss didn’t seem to bolster Miami’s case.
“That’s what hurt Miami,” McElroy added. “And it’s not their fault—it’s the fault of the teams they played.”
Despite McElroy’s defense, the reality of Miami’s schedule offers little consolation. For a program that began the season with high expectations, fueled by a dynamic offense led by standout quarterback Cam Ward, this outcome feels like a bitter conclusion to what could have been a memorable campaign for “The U.”
As the final CFP rankings approach, Miami finds itself on the outside looking in, a stark reminder of the challenges posed by a system that continues to generate controversy and dissatisfaction.
